CELPIP vs IELTS for Canada PR (2026): Which to Take

Key Takeaways

Both CELPIP and IELTS are accepted for Canadian PR and convert to the same Canadian Language Benchmark scale

Use CELPIP General or IELTS General Training for immigration, never IELTS Academic

CELPIP is computer-based in one Canadian-accent sitting; IELTS has a live human speaking examiner and works worldwide

CLB 7 equals IELTS 6.0 in each skill and CELPIP 7; aim for CLB 9 to maximize CRS points

CELPIP is slightly cheaper (about CAD $280) and faster (3 to 4 days); pick the test that matches your strengths

As of June 6, 2026.

Both CELPIP and IELTS are accepted for Canadian permanent residence, so the question is never which one Canada wants. It is which one fits you. The two tests measure the same thing, map to the same Canadian Language Benchmark scale, and carry the same weight in your Express Entry score. The differences are in format, accents, cost, speed, and whether you need a credential that works outside Canada. This guide lays out those differences, shows how the scores convert, and helps you pick.

What is the difference between CELPIP and IELTS?

Short answer: CELPIP is a fully computer-based Canadian test taken in one sitting; IELTS is a globally recognized test with a separate, human-led speaking interview. The Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP) uses only North American accents and Canadian everyday scenarios, and you finish all four sections in about three hours. The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) uses a mix of British, Australian, and other accents and splits speaking into a one-on-one conversation with an examiner. The table below sets the two side by side.

Feature	CELPIP General	IELTS General Training
Format	100% computer-based	Computer or paper
Sitting	All four skills in one session	Speaking often on a separate day
Speaking	Recorded into a computer	Live interview with an examiner
Accents	North American only	British, Australian, and others
Results	About 3 to 4 calendar days	About 3 to 13 days
Cost	Around CAD $280	About CAD $300 to $320
Recognition	Canadian immigration and some Canadian uses	Immigration, study, and work worldwide

How do CELPIP and IELTS scores convert to CLB?

Short answer: Both feed into the Canadian Language Benchmark (CLB), which is the only score Express Entry actually uses. Your raw CELPIP number or IELTS band is translated into a CLB level for each skill, and your points come from the CLB, not the test. The table shows the conversion for the levels that matter most in Express Entry.

CLB	CELPIP (each skill)	IELTS Listening	Reading	Writing	Speaking
10	10 to 12	8.5	8.0	7.5	7.5
9

CLB 9 is the tier to aim for, because it unlocks the highest band of Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) language points and the bonus for strong language plus education. Confirm the full chart on the IRCC language test equivalency charts.

Is CELPIP easier than IELTS?

Short answer: Neither is easier overall; each suits a different test-taker. CELPIP tends to help people who think in North American English, prefer finishing in one sitting, and are comfortable speaking into a microphone, and its multiple-choice reading and listening mean a misspelled word will not cost you. IELTS tends to help people who read well by scanning for keywords, who prefer talking to a real person, or who simply find the British and Australian accents familiar. Take an official practice test of each before deciding, because your own result on a sample is worth more than any general claim about difficulty.

Which is cheaper, and how fast are the results?

Short answer: CELPIP is usually a little cheaper and faster. CELPIP costs around CAD $280 and returns results in roughly three to four calendar days, which matters if you are racing a profile expiry or planning a retake. IELTS runs about CAD $300 to $320, with computer-delivered results in a few days and paper-based results closer to two weeks. If speed and a Canada-only purpose are your priorities, CELPIP has a small edge; if you want one credential for several countries, IELTS earns its price.

Should you take CELPIP or IELTS for Canada PR?

Short answer: Choose CELPIP if Canada is your only goal and a computer-based, single-sitting format suits you. Choose IELTS if you want a credential recognized worldwide, prefer a human speaking examiner, or already trained for it. There is no scoring advantage either way in Express Entry, since both convert to the same CLB. The smarter move is to match the test to your strengths, because a higher CLB on the test that fits you beats a lower CLB on the one that does not. Build your profile through the IRCC become a candidate guidance once your result is in.

Frequently asked questions

Is CELPIP valid for 2 years?

Yes. Both CELPIP and IELTS results are valid for two years for IRCC immigration purposes, and your test must still be valid on the day you apply for permanent residence, not just on the day you submit your Express Entry profile.

What is CLB 7 equal to in IELTS?

CLB 7 equals IELTS General Training scores of 6.0 in each of listening, reading, writing, and speaking. In CELPIP, CLB 7 equals a 7 in each skill. CLB 7 is the common minimum for many skilled programs.

Is CELPIP accepted for permanent residence?

Yes. CELPIP General is fully accepted for Express Entry and other economic immigration programs. Only the CELPIP General test counts for permanent residence, not the CELPIP General LS version used for citizenship.

Is it easy to get CLB 7 in CELPIP?

It is achievable for most candidates with solid everyday English, since CLB 7 is a middle benchmark rather than an advanced one. The bigger challenge is usually reaching CLB 9 for maximum CRS points, which takes targeted practice on whichever test you choose.

How a licensed RCIC can help

Short answer: The test is only worth what it does to your CRS score, and that is where strategy beats guessing. Go Far Global is a licensed Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) firm in Toronto, regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants (CICC). We tell you the CLB level your profile actually needs, which test gives you the best shot at it, and whether a French test would lift your score further. Book a consultation before you pay for a test that may not be the right one.

CELPIP vs IELTS for Canada: Which English Test Should You Take in 2026?

Key Takeaways

What is the difference between CELPIP and IELTS?

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Have Questions About Immigration?

Which test does Canada accept for permanent residence?

How do CELPIP and IELTS scores convert to CLB?

Is CELPIP easier than IELTS?

Which is cheaper, and how fast are the results?

Calculate Your CRS Score

Should you take CELPIP or IELTS for Canada PR?

Frequently asked questions

How a licensed RCIC can help

Sources

Sources & References

Rami Mamar

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Canadian Experience Class (CEC) 2026: Eligibility, CRS, and the Reform That Could Replace It